Stories

As we steadily move into 2024, we know you’re all anxiously awaiting to see what it has in store for you, but more so, what the residential trends are in Columbus! Look no further as we’ve got you covered. Sharing her skillset of space planning and code knowledge is our residential architect Brenda Parker. Buckle up as we leap into her observations and predictions for local Columbus homeowners looking to increase longevity and value in their homes. 

1. Butler Kitchens:

How cluttered are your kitchen counters right now? Be honest, we’re not judging. Many in town have this problem! The desire for a separate space to hide pesky appliances and messes (and maybe even dishes if you incorporate a second sink!), is making headway into 2024. Brenda explains that this addition won’t solely replace all the beautiful cabinetry in the kitchen as she still recommends some full-height cabinets for quick access. The perk of the Butler’s Kitchen is just that, a perk. Often located right off the kitchen with a pocket door, this secondary space allows for residences to have a show kitchen, and a separate workspace for prepping dinner. 

2. Mudroom Marvels:

Topping the list is the mudroom, and for good reason. It’s not far-fetched to ask one to imagine walking through the front door and just seeing stuff everywhere. Bags, keys, dog leashes, shoes, jackets, hats, and purses.. Okay, okay you get the idea. There’s lots of stuff and little space. That nightmare drives the increased inquiry for a mudroom. Reimaging the flow and functionality of the entryway is no small feat and something Brenda is a pro at. The solution for clutter presents itself as something Joanna Gaines would approve of (minus the shiplap), built-in benches, hooks, and floor-to-ceiling cabinetry to hide all eye sores. Creating a drop-down zone that’s aesthetically pleasing and functional is at the top of everyone’s list for 2024. 

3. Kitchen Islands Reimagined:

With kitchens being the heart of the home, it operates as a vital space for families and is a key component for many buyers. Families are beginning to rethink dining rooms and how they share meals. As a result, Kitchen Island is transforming in 2024.

The typical home Brenda works with is around 1,500 sq ft, and they do not want to add on whole additions. Rather, homeowners are trading dining room square footage for expansive islands. Traditionally these surfaces would serve as only a meal-prepping zone, but now has a dual purpose. Whether operating as a desk for kids doing homework, a WFH spot, a dining table, or where friends gather, this zone heavily operates as a conversational hub. Given the significance of this space, it’s vital to consider circulation, aesthetics, and conversational flow. Rest assured, Brenda will guide us through the details of what that looks like. 

For those leaning towards barstools over a traditional dining table keep in mind the eye contact and prioritizing conversational flow. Brenda emphasizes steering away from a linear arrangement and instead opting for placing the “table” section at the corner while wrapping chairs around the edge. As established earlier, this is a dual-purpose spot which means food prep and cooking will likely take place. However, Brenda advises against adding a convection top cooker to prioritize safety. “You don’t want your kid doing homework and grease jumps out at them”, she explains. Incorporating the convectional top also necessitates a range that would obstruct the eye view and disrupt the kitchen’s overall aesthetic. Moving into the new year she recommends creating a space that harmonizes functionality, style, and safety.

4. Elevated Laundry Spaces:

Requests are flying in for a second-floor laundry room. Rather than having to carry laundry baskets up several flights of stairs, one can simply walk across the hall and immediately dump them on the chair in the corner (don’t lie- we all have that one chair). Giving the washroom a facelift is something that won’t be slowing down any time soon, and can only increase the ease of the chore and value of the home.  

5. Flex Spaces:

I’m not the only one who remembers the “cloffice” am I? Post Covid, the need for a flex space is still there but for slightly different reasons. As housing shortages emerge in Columbus and across the country, it’s not uncommon to have intergenerational households. That extra room parents thought was going to be a workout room is now their kid’s bedroom, or maybe it’s that office now has to operate as a guest room too. Brenda says that the desire for a flex space is only gaining popularity. If this sounds like you, she recommends exploring Murphy beds as an option! With a newfound aesthetic and capitalizing on functionality, it effortlessly transforms spaces based on the unique requirements of the residents.

6. Aging in Place: 

During a time when local homeowners are increasingly prioritizing longevity in their living spaces, the concept of “aging in place” has emerged as a central theme. Understanding the tight housing market and the impacts of climate change of retirement-friendly coastlines, Brenda predicts that this will only grow in popularity now and for the years to come. As a result, she’s prepared to integrate more solutions for inter-generational living. A recommended first step is to rethink the location of the primary suite. Reconfiguring space for a first-floor suite, whether primary or guest, allows for all ages to be comfortable. If this is something that if on the horizon she recommends rethinking the second-floor laundry room. She would encompass that into or near the suite to create optimal independence. Widinging the door frames to incorporate wheelchairs, walkers, etc is an easy way to provide comfort and maneuverability for aging family members. 

Brenda provides an insightful perspective on the changing residential scene here in Columbus. Moving into the year, her top inquiries highlight that many homeowners are hunkering down, but seek versatility and organization in their spaces. To do so it’s important to have a critical eye and a forward-thinking approach. Brenda delicately tailors customized solutions, creating a personalized roadmap for those eager to embark on a transformative journey this upcoming year. For inquiries and consultations, don’t hesitate to reach out to Brenda at brenda.parker@cbusarch.com. For some of our inspo pictures, go check out our LinkedIn account: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-columbus-architectural-studio Here’s to a year filled with innovation and creating homes that truly reflect the warmth and uniqueness of their occupants!